Sunday, January 3, 2010

Grivel Quantum Tech Ice Climbing Tool Review

I had the opportunity to test the Grivel Quantum Tech ice tool today. I had used the Takoon a few years back, and while it was a good tool it didn't quite fit my mitts so well. The Quantum however is simply amazing. I've used just about every tool from the major manufacturers and few have such a natural feel as this piece of art.

From the first swing it felt like a natural extension of my arm. It is an extremely light tool, but carries enough weight in the head to make for sure sticks with only a short flick of the wrist. It sports a very durable pick that drytools well and also sticks into cold ice well. The geometry of the shaft allows for good hand stacking with minimal pick shift.

Overall I would have to say its one of, if not the best, all around technical ice tools available today. Equally adept on WI3, WI6, or M8. I'm psyched to keep putting it through the wringer on all the terrain the San Juans has to through at it. I'm planning on pairing it with one Quantum Light with an adze and taking it to Alaska and the Alps as well for technical alpine routes.

About Me

San Juan Mountain Guides is the premier provider of rock climbing, ice climbing, and skiing instruction in the San Juans. San Juan Mountain Guides is the only year round guide service in Ouray, Colorado, aka- The Local Experts. We offer personalized, professional instruction and guiding in Ice climbing, Rock climbing, Backcountry Skiing and Avalanche Training, Alpine Mountaineering, Guided Hikes, and International Expeditions. Our home base is the picturesque town of Ouray, Colorado. Ouray is nestled high in the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado where the country's finest and most accessible ice climbing is plentiful. Rock climbing instruction, Mountaineering Instruction, and Backcountry Skiing Instruction is also available right here in Ouray as well as the numerous other world-class alpine and desert environments close to Ouray. There are vast opportunities here in the San Juans and experiences to be had. Please do not hesitate to call or email us with any questions or to request additional information. 970-325-4925 info@ourayclimbing.com